U.S. patent application number 13/899116 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-27 for folded core panel.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Boeing Company. The applicant listed for this patent is The Boeing Company. Invention is credited to Allan Tien.
Application Number | 20140349082 13/899116 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50732076 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140349082 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tien; Allan |
November 27, 2014 |
Folded Core Panel
Abstract
A folded core panel disclosed herein that includes a folded core
having peaks and valleys characterized by a corrugated zigzag
pattern. The folded core may include an airflow channel. The
airflow channel may provide an egress to reduce the concentration
of moisture in the folded core. The folded core may be formed from
a single piece of material. The folded core may have varying face
slopes depending on the force distribution requirements at the
location of the peak. One or more folded cores may be stacked to
form a stacked core.
Inventors: |
Tien; Allan; (Seattle,
WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Boeing Company |
Chicago |
IL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
The Boeing Company
Chicago
IL
|
Family ID: |
50732076 |
Appl. No.: |
13/899116 |
Filed: |
May 21, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
428/179 ;
156/60 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 2607/00 20130101;
B32B 2250/40 20130101; B64C 1/00 20130101; B32B 3/28 20130101; B32B
7/12 20130101; B32B 37/12 20130101; Y10T 428/24669 20150115; Y10T
156/10 20150115; B32B 2605/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/179 ;
156/60 |
International
Class: |
B64C 1/00 20060101
B64C001/00 |
Claims
1. A panel for use in an aircraft, comprising: a top face sheet; a
bottom face sheet; and a folded core bonded to the top face sheet
and the bottom face sheet, the folded core characterized by a
corrugated zigzag pattern having a plurality of peaks, a plurality
of valleys, and a plurality of non-vertical faces extending between
the plurality of peaks and the plurality of valleys, wherein the
plurality of peaks comprises a generally planar shape having a bend
at a zenith.
2. The panel of claim 1, wherein the plurality of peaks further
comprises a narrow peak angle.
3. (canceled)
4. The panel of claim 1, further comprising a second folded core
configured to conduct electricity.
5. The panel of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of
peaks comprises a shape configured to receive a complementary peak
of a second folded core.
6. The panel of claim 1, further comprising an airflow channel for
removing moisture.
7. The panel of claim 6, wherein the airflow channel is formed by
the plurality of valleys.
8. The panel of claim 1, wherein the folded core comprises a
composite matrix.
9. A folded core for use in an aircraft, comprising: a plurality of
peaks comprising a plurality of ridges, wherein the plurality of
peaks comprises a generally planar shape having a bend at a zenith;
a plurality of valleys; and a plurality of non-vertical faces
extending between the plurality of peaks and the plurality of
valleys, wherein the plurality of peaks and the plurality of
valleys are formed in a corrugated zigzag pattern.
10. The folded core of claim 9, wherein a first ridge of the
plurality of ridges comprise a narrow peak angle.
11. The folded core of claim 10, wherein a second ridge of the
plurality of ridges further comprise a wide peak angle.
12. The folded core of claim 9, wherein a peak of the plurality of
peaks comprises an angular surface profile or a round surface
profile.
13. The folded core of claim 9, further comprising a second folded
core comprising a plurality of second peaks having shapes to
receive at least a portion of the peaks.
14. The folded core of claim 13, wherein the shapes comprise a flat
surface profile, a serrated surface profile or a convex/concave
surface profile.
15. The folded core of claim 9, wherein the folded core is a single
piece of material.
16. The folded core of claim 9, wherein the folded core comprises a
composite matrix.
17. A method of making an aircraft panel, comprising: providing a
top face sheet; providing a bottom face sheet; providing a folded
core characterized by a corrugated zigzag pattern comprising; a
plurality of peaks, and a plurality of valleys, applying an
adhesive to a top surface of the folded core; applying the adhesive
to a bottom surface of the folded core; and curing the adhesive to
form an integral panel.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the generally flat surface
profile comprises a narrow peak angle and a wide peak angle.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein a peak of the plurality of
peaks comprises an angular surface profile, a round surface profile
or a flat surface profile.
20. The method of claim 17, further comprising an airflow channel
formed by the plurality of valleys for removing moisture.
21. A stacked core, comprising: a plurality of folded cores
comprising: a plurality of peaks comprising a plurality of ridges;
a plurality of valleys; and a plurality of non-vertical faces
extending between the plurality of peaks and the plurality of
valleys, wherein the plurality of peaks and the plurality of
valleys are formed in a corrugated zigzag pattern, wherein the
plurality of folded cores comprise complementary features to allow
a first folded core of the plurality of folded cores to be stacked
on a second folded core of the plurality of folded cores.
22. The stacked core of claim 21, wherein the plurality of folded
cores are sparse stacked.
23. The stacked core of claim 22, wherein a peak of the first
folded core is shaped to be complementary to a peak of the second
folded core.
24. The stacked core of claim 23, wherein the peak of the first
folded core and the peak of the second folded core comprise a flat
surface profile, a serrated surface profile, or a convex/concave
surface profile.
25. The stacked core of claim 21, wherein the plurality of folded
cores are dense stacked.
26. The stacked core of claim 25, wherein an inner surface of the
first core abuts to an outer surface of the second core.
27. The stacked core of claim 26, further comprising a bonding
agent to bond the first core to the second core.
28. The stacked core of claim 21, wherein the first folded core
provides a different function than the second folded core.
29. The stacked core of claim 28, wherein the first folded core
provides structural support to the stacked core, conducts
electricity, or resists environmental conditions.
30. The panel of claim 5, wherein the shape configured to receive
the complementary peak of the second folded core comprises a
generally serrated surface profile or a generally convex surface
profile.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Various components in an aircraft may be made using
honeycomb panels. Honeycomb panels typically consist of a honeycomb
core sandwiched between two face sheets. Honeycomb panels can be
relatively lightweight, yet rigid, when compared to other types of
panels, lending themselves to multiple uses in an aircraft.
Examples of uses include the exterior skin panels of the aircraft,
flooring, and the sidewalls of an aircraft.
[0002] Although providing advantages over other types of panels,
honeycomb cores can suffer from various material issues. For
example, honeycomb cores can be prone to moisture ingression
issues. Moisture can seep into cracks and crevices of the honeycomb
panels, but may not be removed because a honeycomb pattern may not
facilitate much, if any, airflow. The remaining moisture may
collect underneath the face sheets, which over time, may cause the
face sheets to peel off.
[0003] Honeycomb cores may also require a relatively large amount
of adhesive to be applied to properly join the honeycomb core to
the face sheets. During operation of the aircraft, a relatively
large amount of shear force may be applied to a face sheet. The
shear force may be transferred to the interface between the face
sheet and the honeycomb core. Delamination at the face sheet and
the honeycomb core may occur unless a proper amount of adhesive is
applied to the honeycomb core.
[0004] It is with respect to these and other considerations that
the disclosure made herein is presented.
SUMMARY
[0005] It should be appreciated that this Summary is provided to
introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are
further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary
is not intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0006] According to one aspect, a panel for use in an aircraft is
provided. The panel may include a top face sheet, a bottom face
sheet, and a folded core bonded to the top face sheet and the
bottom face sheet. The folded core may be characterized by a
corrugated zigzag pattern having one or more non-vertical faces
ending in one or more peaks and one or more valleys.
[0007] According to another aspect of the disclosure herein, a
folded core for use in an aircraft is provided. The folded core may
include one or more peaks having a one or more ridges and one or
more valleys. The one or more peaks and the one or more valleys may
be formed in a corrugated zigzag pattern.
[0008] According to yet another aspect, a method of making an
aircraft panel is provided. The method may include providing a top
face sheet, providing a bottom face sheet and providing a folded
core characterized by a corrugated zigzag pattern. The folded core
may include one or more peaks having a generally flat surface
profile and one or more valleys. The method may further include
applying an adhesive to a top surface of the folded core, applying
the adhesive to a bottom surface of the folded core, and curing the
adhesive to form an integral panel.
[0009] According to a further aspect, a stacked core is provided.
The stacked core may include one or more folded cores. The folded
cores may include peaks with one or more ridges, valleys, and
non-vertical faces extending between the peaks and the valleys. The
peaks and the valleys may be formed in a corrugated zigzag pattern.
The folded cores may include complementary features to allow a
first folded core to be stacked on a second folded core.
[0010] The features, functions, and advantages discussed herein can
be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present
disclosure as taught herein, combinations thereof, or may be
combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be
seen with reference to the following description and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a conventional
honeycomb panel.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a folded core panel,
according to various embodiments.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating surface
profiles of peaks in a folded core panel, according to various
embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a top-down view illustrating multiple peak angles
in a folded core panel, according to various embodiments.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate folded core
panel, according to various embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a still further alternate
folded core panel, according to various embodiments.
[0017] FIGS. 7A-7C are side, cross-sectional views illustrating
surface profiles of peaks in a folded core panel configured to
receive complementary peaks of another folded core panel, according
to various embodiments.
[0018] FIGS. 8A-8C are side, cross-sectional views illustrating
surface profiles of cores having complementary features that
facilitate the stacking of folded cores, according to various
embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 9 is an exemplary routine for forming a panel for use
in an aircraft, according to various embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] The following detailed description is directed to a folded
core for use in an aircraft panel. A folded core panel according to
various concepts described herein can provide various peaks upon
which a bond may be formed to bond the folded core to face sheets
to form the panel. In some configurations, the peaks can provide a
bonding surface area greater than the bonding surface area of
comparable, conventional core designs. The bonding surface area may
help to reduce the amount of bonding agent necessary to
sufficiently bond the core to the face sheets.
[0021] In some configurations, the peaks of the folded core panel
are designed to present a flat, or nearly flat, surface area to an
adhesive. The flat profile can provide an increased surface area
onto which an adhesive may bond the folded core to the face sheet.
A greater bonding surface area may distribute shear forces, as well
as other forces, to a greater area of the core bonded to a face
sheet. This may reduce the amount of shear force applied to any one
specific location of the core. Because of this, in some
configurations, a reduction in the amount of adhesive necessary may
be realized over similar, conventional core designs.
[0022] A folded core according to further concepts provided herein
may also provide for valleys that provide space sufficient to allow
air to flow through the core. In some configurations, this may
minimize or eliminate moisture ingress. Conventional honeycomb
panels have cores with honeycomb-shaped structures that are tightly
packed in a vertical configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 1. A
honeycomb panel 100 of conventional design consists of a honeycomb
core 102 sandwiched between a top face sheet 104 and a bottom face
sheet 106. The honeycomb core 102 is typically bonded to the top
face sheet 104 and the bottom face sheet 106 through the use of an
adhesive (not shown).
[0023] As illustrated, the honeycomb core 102 consists of several
honeycomb structures, such as the honeycomb structures 108 and 110.
The honeycomb structures 108 and 110 are tightly packed together,
that is, the shape and design of the honeycomb structures 108 and
110 allow for the edges of the structures to be flush with adjacent
honeycomb structures. While providing for the desired structural
rigidity and strength, the tight packing of the honeycomb
structures reduces or eliminations any airflow paths through the
honeycomb core 102. In some implementations, the ability to remove
moisture that may collect in the honeycomb core 102 is prevented by
the tight packing of the honeycomb structures 108 and 110. Thus, if
moisture gets into the honeycomb core 102, the moisture may collect
and affect the bond between the honeycomb core 102 and the face
sheets 104 and 106, possibly causing the delamination of a portion
of the face sheets 104 and 106. The delamination of the face sheets
104 or 106 can cause structural failure and present safety
issues.
[0024] Further, as mentioned briefly above, conventional honeycomb
cores may not provide adequate bonding area. One method of
increasing the bond may be through the use of an excess amount of
adhesive. While providing a bond sufficient to handle the various
stresses applied to the honeycomb panel 100, the additional
adhesive can increase the weight of the honeycomb panel 100 beyond
an intended or desired amount.
[0025] As illustrated in FIG. 1, in a conventional honeycomb core
102, the bonding surface area, such as the surface area 112, can be
relatively small. This is often a function of the desired design
for the honeycomb core 102. The honeycomb core 102 is preferably
hollow with generally even wall thickness along the length of the
honeycomb structures that form the honeycomb core 102. In order to
increase the surface area of the surface area 112, the honeycomb
structures 108 and 110 may need to be manufactured with increased
wall thickness. In the alternative, the honeycomb structures 108
and 110 may be manufactured with variable wall thickness, with the
greater thickness at the surface area 112 and the thinner wall
thickness near a central point of the honeycomb structures 108 and
110.
[0026] Either method can significantly increase the complexity of
the manufacturing process, thus increasing cost. Increasing the
surface area 112 may require specialized manufacturing equipment,
resulting in increases in cost and time to make the honeycomb core
102. Further, the additional materials associated with the
increased surface area can translate to a heavier honeycomb core
102, possibly negating the benefits of using the honeycomb panel
100.
[0027] A folded core according to various concepts described herein
uses a folded design to increase the surface area for bonding,
while, in some configurations, provides an airflow passageway to
help remove moisture.
[0028] In the following detailed description, references are made
to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which
are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments or examples.
Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent
like elements throughout the several figures, aspects of a folded
core panel will be presented.
[0029] Referring now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of a folded core
202 is presented. The folded core 202 can be constructed of one or
more layers of composite material, plastic, metal, and the like.
The folded core 202 may be characterized as having a corrugated
zigzag pattern. As used herein, "corrugated" includes a surface
having parallel peaks and valleys. Also as used herein, "zigzag"
includes a pattern having lines characterized by angular turns. It
should be understood that the designation of a structure as a
"peak" or a "valley" may depend on the orientation of the folded
core 202. For example, if the folded core 202 is rotated
upside-down, the peaks may resemble valleys. In a similar manner,
the valleys may resemble and provide similar functionality to peaks
in a different orientation of the folded core 202. Accordingly, the
presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular
orientation of the peaks and valleys described herein, as the
identification and functionality may depend on the orientation of
the folded core.
[0030] The folded core 202 can be formed by folding or forming a
material in a V-shaped pattern having a series of peaks 204 and
valleys 206 at distal ends of faces 205 that are non-vertical. The
folded core 202 can be formed using a mandrel (not shown) or other
forming apparatus. For example, if the folded core 202 is a
composite matrix, the folded core 202 may formed by laying down
plies of composite matrix-forming material into a mandrel and
curing the material into the shape of the folded core 202. In
another implementation, the folded core 202 may be a plastic
material, such as thermoplastic or thermoset. The plastic material
may be extruded or formed into the shape of the folded core 202
using convention plastic-forming techniques. In another embodiment,
the folded core 202 may be a metal or metal-alloy. In that
embodiment, the material may be folded or cast using conventional
metal forming techniques. In a further embodiment, the folded core
202 is a single piece of material. As used herein, "single"
includes uncut. The concepts and technologies described herein are
not limited to any particular material or any particular method for
forming the material.
[0031] The peaks 204 are defined by ridges 208 that present a
surface area for bonding the folded core 202 to a face sheet using
a bonding agent. As used herein, a "bonding agent" includes a
chemical, physical, metallic or other mechanism in which a bond may
be formed. For example, a bonding agent may be an adhesive, a weld,
a rivet, and the like. The present disclosure, however, is not
limited to any particular bonding agent. Accordingly, it should be
appreciated that the use of an adhesive in relation to various
figures herein does not limit the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0032] Various aspects of the folded core 202 may be modified to
provide various characteristics. Some examples of characteristics
include, but are not limited to, bonding strength to a face sheet,
the ability of the folded core 202 to withstand outside forces, the
weight of the folded core 202, and moisture removal capabilities.
One example of a modification that may be made to the folded core
202 is the surface profile of the ridges 208.
[0033] The surface profile of the ridges 208 may be configured to
provide various benefits, including, but not limited to, increasing
or decreasing the bond between the folded core 202 and a face
sheet. Some examples of surface profiles include, but are not
limited to, an angular, flat, or rounded profile, or combinations
thereof. Each profile type may provide various benefits. For
example, an angular surface profile may provide a smaller surface
area for adhesion when compared to other types of profiles, but may
use less material, resulting in possible weight savings. The flat
surface profile may provide a greater surface area for bonding than
an angular surface profile and may also present a flatter surface
to absorb an impact or outside force, but may use more material
than the angular surface profile. The rounded surface profile may
provide a middle ground between the benefits of an angular surface
profile and the flat surface profile. In FIG. 2, the ridges 208 are
illustrated as having an angular profile. Examples of some surface
profiles for the ridges 208 are illustrated in further detail in
FIG. 3 below.
[0034] In addition to changing the profile of the ridges 208, other
aspects of the folded core 202 may be configured based on the
desired characteristics of the folded core 202. For example, the
V-shaped pattern of the peaks 204 may be changed. In FIG. 2, a peak
204A and a peak 204B are shown having an angular displacement,
illustrated as a peak angle .alpha., that forms the V-shaped
pattern. The peak angle .alpha. may be set to optimize the folded
core 202 for the particular use of the folded core 202. For
example, the peak angle .alpha. may be relatively small to increase
the surface area of the ridges 208 in a particular area, which may
increase the surface area available for bonding the folded core 202
to a face sheet. The peak angle .alpha. may also be relatively
large to decrease the amount of material used to form the folded
core 202. These and other aspects are explained in more detail in
FIG. 4 below.
[0035] Another example of a geometry that may be changed is the
slope of the faces 205. A slope may be defined as the gradient of
the faces 205. For example, in FIG. 2, the face 205A may have a
face slope .beta. measured by the ratio of the altitude change to
the horizontal distance between a peak 204C and a valley 206A. The
face slope .beta. may be set at a particular gradient to provide
various benefits for load transfer, airflow, and the like. When
compensating for load transfer, for example, a relatively large
face slope may provide a better compressive load transfer path than
a relatively smaller face slope. A relatively smaller face slope,
however, may provide a better shear load transfer path than a
relatively larger face slope. Various aspects of face slopes are
described in more detail in FIG. 3 below.
[0036] As discussed above, moisture may collect in a core and, over
time, damage the bond between a core and the face sheets. If
uncorrected, the moisture damage may cause delamination of the face
sheet from the core. One of the ways to reduce the effects of
moisture is to provide a channel through which moisture may move
out of the folded core 202. For example, the folded core 202 may
include a channel 210 from point A to point B along the axis AB
defined by the peaks 204, the faces 205 and the valleys 206. The
channel 210 may provide a way to allow moisture to exit the folded
core 202. In some configurations, the channel 210 may be large
enough to provide sufficient space to reduce the concentration of
the moisture at any one location in the channel 210. Reducing the
concentration of moisture at any one point may reduce the
likelihood of moisture damaging the bond between the folded core
202 and its facing sheets.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the
folded core 202 showing peaks 204D-204F, faces 205D-205E, and
valleys 206D-206E. In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3, the
peak 204D has a generally angular surface profile, the peak 204E
has a generally flat surface profile, and the peak 204F has a
generally round surface profile. In some configurations, it may be
desirable to use the profile of the peak 204D over the profile of
the peak 204E. Because of the singular fold at the apex of the peak
204D, it may be less complex to manufacture the peak 204D as
compared to the peaks 204E or 204F. The peak 204D may provide a
cost and time savings benefit over the peaks 204E or 204F.
[0038] But, the singular fold at the apex of the peak 204D may not
provide an equivalent surface area for a bonding agent when
compared to the peaks 204E and 204F. The flat portion of the peak
204E may present a greater surface area upon which a bonding agent
may be affixed than the apex of the peak 204D, thus providing a
stronger bond in some configurations. In a similar manner, the
rounded shape of the peak 204F may also provide an increased
surface area upon which a bonding agent may be applied when
compared to the peak 204D.
[0039] Even though they may provide a greater surface area for
bonding, the peaks 204E and 204F may utilize more material in their
construction than the peak 204D, thus increasing the weight of the
folded core 202. The choice of peak profile may depend on the
design considerations for a particular application. In some
implementations, different peaks 204 in the same folded core 202
may have different surface profiles to optimize the peaks 204 for
the use at a particular location in the folded core 202.
[0040] In FIG. 3, the face 205D has a face slope .beta., defined by
an angle .gamma., while the face 205E has a face slope .beta.',
defined by an angle .gamma.'. In FIG. 3, the face slope .beta.' is
smaller than the face slope .beta.. In some examples, the angle
.gamma. and the angle .gamma.' may range from 10 degrees to 80
degrees. In some further examples, the angle .gamma. and the angle
.gamma.' may range from 30 degrees to 60 degrees. The upper and
lower limits of the angle .gamma. and the angle .gamma.' may vary
depending on design considerations. Having a larger slope can
better handle a compressive force C acting in a generally normal
path to the height of the peak 204D. A large slope, such as the
face slope .beta., may better transfer the compressive force C
because the compressive force C is transferred in a generally
normal direction to the face slope .beta., reducing the amount of
torque applied to radius bend 320. However, the face slope .beta.
may not be particularly well-suited to handle a shear force S
acting in a generally lateral direction along the length of the
peak 204D. The steeper slope of the face slope .beta. causes a
greater degree of torque to be generated at the radius bend 320 as
compared to a smaller slope.
[0041] The peak 204E may be better suited to handle the shear force
S than the peak 204D. The smaller slope provided by the slope
.beta.' places the structure generally more in-line with the shear
force S, thus reducing the generation of torque at the radius bend
322. However, because of the smaller slope, the structure of the
peak 204E is not generally in-line with the compressive force C.
Thus, the peak 204E may not be able to handle the compressive force
C as well as the peak 204D. As with other implementations, the
peaks 204 may have different face slopes in the same folded core
202 to provide various benefits at particular locations.
[0042] The folded core 202 may have more than one face slope to
optimize the folded core 202 for a force-handling requirement at a
particular location. For example, in areas in which the folded core
202 is not subject to relatively large amounts of shear stress, the
folded core 202 may use a peak having a profile similar to the peak
204D, which may provide weight reduction capabilities. In areas in
which the folded core 202 is subject to relatively large amounts of
shear stress, the folded core 202 may use a peak having a profile
similar to the peak 204E, which may provide increased adhesive
capabilities but may suffer from increased weight when compared to
the peak 204D. The folded core 202 may use various combinations of
the peaks 204D-204F optimize the folded 202 depending on the
specific conditions at the location of the peak.
[0043] The face slope of the folded core 202 may also be configured
to provide for a certain degree of air transfer. For example, a
channel 310 may have a certain volume and channel profile provided
the peaks 204D-204E and the valley 206D, while a channel 312 may
have a certain volume and channel profile provided the peaks
204E-204F and the valley 206E. Different profiles may provide
different moisture movement capabilities. In some configurations,
the face slopes may be adjusted based on desired airflow
capabilities, as well as force handling capabilities if that is an
additional factor. These and other capabilities may be provided by
configuring other aspects of the folded core 202.
[0044] FIG. 4 is a top-down view of a ridge 208A of the folded core
202. The peak 204 is shown having a peak angle .alpha. in a section
402 and a peak angle .alpha.' in a section 404. The peak angle
.alpha. is a narrow peak angle and the peak angle .alpha.' is a
wide peak angle. As used herein, "a narrow peak angle" includes a
peak angle equal to or less than 90 degrees. In some examples, a
narrow peak angle may range from 20 degrees to 90 degrees. In some
implementations, the lower limit of the peak angle .alpha. may be
limited by the amount of material used in the composite structure
as well as weight considerations. The ability to bend layers of
material into relatively narrow angles without damage to the
materials decreases as the amount of material increases. Further,
as used herein, a "wide peak angle" includes a peak angle greater
than 90 degrees. In some examples, a wide peak angle may range from
greater than 90 degrees to 150 degrees. In some implementations,
the upper limit of the peak angle .alpha. may be limited by a
reduction in the advantages attainted by a folded core. As the peak
angle .alpha. increases, the ridge 208A increasingly resembles a
straight line, reducing the bonding surface area and the amount of
material available for force absorption. Decreasing the peak angle
can increase the amount of surface area to which the folded core
202 may be bonded to face sheets by increasing the surface area of
the ridge 208A per a given length. By way of illustration, the
lengths 410A-410H (collectively herein referred to as "the lengths
410") are areas on the ridge 208A to which an adhesive or other
bonding agent may be applied to bond the folded core 202 to a face
sheet. Increasing the number of lengths can provide an increased
bond between the folded core 202 and a face sheet at a particular
location.
[0045] For example the portion of the ridge 208A provided by the
peak angle .alpha. may include lengths 410A-410D within a
transverse length L of the ridge 208A. By comparison, the portion
of the ridge 208A having the peak angle .alpha.' may include
lengths 410F and 410G but only portions of length 410E and 410H
within the same transverse length L of the ridge 208A. As shown,
the portion of the ridge 208A provided by the peak angle .alpha.
provides more area along the transverse length L due to the
increased number of the lengths 410, as compared to the portion of
the ridge 208A having the peak angle .alpha.'. The greater number
of lengths may help to increase the strength of the bond between
the folded core 202 and a face sheet. But, the increased number of
lengths may also impact the weight of the material for a given
length. All other factors being equal, increasing the amount of
material in a given transverse length L can increase the weight of
the folded core 202.
[0046] To further optimize the folded core 202 for a specific
application, the folded core 202 may also be configured with peaks
having more than one peak angle. For example, in areas in which a
relatively strong bond strength is desired, the folded core 202 may
have a peak with the narrow peak angle .alpha.. In areas in which
the strength of the bond may not be a factor as much as the weight
savings, the folded core 202 may have a peak with the portion
provided by the wide peak angle .alpha.'.
[0047] FIGS. 5 and 6 provide examples of further configurations of
folded core panels. Referring now to FIG. 5, a perspective view of
a folded core 502 is illustrated. The folded core 502 has peaks
504, which are identified with a star, "". The peaks 504 provide a
bonding surface to which the folded core 502 may be bonded to a
face sheet. The peaks 504 may also act as an initial force transfer
interface between a load applied to the peaks 504 and some other
structure in an aircraft. As illustrated, the peaks 504 have a
generally planar shape when compared to the peaks 204 of FIG. 2.
The planar shape may provide various benefits over other
shapes.
[0048] For example, a planar shape may provide for a better bond
strength when compared to an angular shape. The greater surface
area of the peaks 504 may present a relatively larger interface to
which chemical bonds may be formed with the adhesive, thus possibly
increasing the bonding strength for a given amount of adhesive.
Increasing the bonds between the peaks 504 and an adhesive can also
help to reduce the amount of adhesive necessary to create a bond of
a certain strength. If more bonds are available for adhesion, less
adhesive may be needed to create a bond having a strength similar
to bonds between more angular peaks, such as the peaks 204 of FIG.
2, and a face sheet.
[0049] The increased surface area of the peaks 504 in relation to
other configurations for peaks may help to distribute a force to a
greater area than what may be found in the other peak designs. The
distribution of forces may help reduce the impact of a force at any
one particular location of the peaks 504. For example, a force of
one pound-force applied to a surface having an area of one square
inch translates to a pressure of one pound per square inch,
whereas, the same one pound-force applied to a surface having an
area of one hundred square inches translates to a pressure of one
pound per one hundred square inches. The force of the second
scenario is distributed to a greater surface area, i.e. one hundred
square inches rather than one square inch, thus minimizing the
effect of the same force at any one location on the peaks 504. This
may provide for the ability of the peaks 504 to have a lighter
design, needing only to account for a smaller pound-force per
square inch than a comparable peak, such as the peaks 204 of FIG.
2, which are angular in nature and, therefore, may not disperse a
force in a similar manner.
[0050] The folded core 502 also includes valleys 506, identified in
FIG. 5 with a circle, ".largecircle.". The valleys 506 may be
configured in a manner similar to the peaks 504 to provide similar
structural benefits when used to bond the folded core 502 to a
folded sheet. Further, the configuration of the valleys 504 may
help to provide an airflow channel 510. The airflow channel 510 may
allow moisture that enters the folded core 502 to exit the folded
core 502 along the airflow channel 510.
[0051] Moisture may enter the folded core 502 in various ways. For
example, defects in the face sheets may allow ingress points
through which water or other liquids may enter the folded core 502.
In another example, the folded core 504 may be constructed of
composite materials that are cured. The various materials in the
composite structure may use resins or other liquids in the
manufacturing or curing process. Unless the liquids are extracted
during the curing phase, the liquid may remain in the folded core
502. Over a period of time, the moisture may degrade the materials
in the folded core 502. For example, some adhesives may degrade
over time when exposed to moisture. This degradation of the
adhesive can reduce the strength of the bond between the folded
core 502 and a face sheet, allowing the face sheet to delaminate
and separate from the folded core 502. The depths of the valleys
506 may affect the geometry, and thus performance, of the airflow
channel 510.
[0052] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a folded core 602 that may use
features associated with a generally planar folded core peak along
with features associated with an angular folded core peak. Shown in
FIG. 6 are peaks 604 and valleys 606 that form the folded core 602.
As discussed previously, a generally flat surface on a peak may
provide certain benefits over a generally angular peak, with the
same being true in the reverse.
[0053] For example, a generally planar peak surface may increase
the amount of area available for adhesion while also distribution
forces over a greater area, possibly making a folded core using the
generally planar peak strong than comparable folded cores. But, the
generally planar peak surface may use more material, thus possibly
increasing the weight of the folded core. Similarly, a folded core
using a generally angular peak surface may reduce the amount of
material as well as may simplify construction, but may not have
similar performance characteristics as generally planar peak
surfaces with regard to bonding strength or force distribution.
[0054] The folded core 602 of FIG. 6 has a structure that provides
some benefits of both types of peak surfaces. For example, peak
604A has an angular structure, which has a sharp bend at zenith
608, thus providing for at least a partial angular peak. Further,
peak 604A has planar surfaces 610. The planar surfaces 610 can
present a generally planar surface to which an adhesive may be
applied, thus providing a stronger bond in some configurations.
Therefore, in some configurations, the folded core 602 may provide
some benefits relating to a generally planar peak surface as well
as a generally angular peak surface.
[0055] FIGS. 7A-7C are side, cross-sectional views illustrating
surface profiles of peaks in a folded core panel configured to
receive complementary peaks of another folded core panel in a
stacked folded core design. In some implementations, a folded core
panel may be bonded to another folded core panel instead of a face
sheet. In some configurations, the peaks may have a shape
configured to receive an opposing peak for bonding. In another
configuration, the peaks of one folded core may have a shape
configured to receive a valley from another folded core. Having
peaks with various complementary shapes may provide certain
benefits in some implementations. For example, the peaks provide a
certain amount of surface area for bonding. In other
implementations, the complementary peaks may have a shape that
provides some degree of structural rigidity.
[0056] For example, FIG. 7A is a side, cross-sectional view
illustrating one exemplary configuration of complementary peaks.
Illustrated is a portion of cores 702A1 and 702A2. The cores 702A1
and 702A2 include peaks 704A1 and 704A2, respectively. The peaks
704A1 and 704A2 have a generally flat surface profile. In some
configuration, the peaks 704A1 and 704A2 may provide various
benefits. For example, the generally flat surface profile may be
relatively easy to manufacture because of the absence of
specialized or detailed features. Further, the generally flat
surface profile of the peaks 704A1 and 704A2 may provide an
increased amount of surface available for bonding when compared to
peaks having a generally angular profile.
[0057] The configuration illustrated in FIG. 7A, as well as FIGS.
7B-7C described below, may be termed sparse stacking. The
configuration may be termed sparse stacking because, when stacked,
the folded cores do not abut against each other except for at
interface location 720, which is the location at which the cores
702A1 and 702A2 are bonded to each other. The remaining portions of
the cores 702A1 and 702A2 are not abutted against each other,
providing for a relatively sparse amount of core per a given
volume. FIGS. 8A-8C, below, provide exemplary configurations of
dense stacking
[0058] FIG. 7B is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating an
alternate surface profile. Illustrated is a portion of cores 702B1
and 702B2. The cores 702B1 and 702B2 include peaks 704B1 and 704B2,
respectively. The peaks 704B1 and 704B2 have a generally serrated
surface profile. In some configuration, the peaks 704B1 and 704B2
may provide various benefits. For example, the generally serrated
surface profile may provide an increased surface area for bonding
over the generally flat surface profile of FIG. 7A. In further
implementations, the generally serrated surface profile may provide
a mechanical benefit whereby lateral movement of the peaks 704B1
and 704B2 with respect to each other may be reduced or impeded.
[0059] FIG. 7C is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating an
alternate surface profile. Illustrated is a portion of core 702C1
and 702C2. The cores 702C1 and 702C2 include peaks 704C1 and 704C2,
respectively. The peak 704C1 has a generally convex surface profile
and the peak 704C2 has a generally convex surface profile. In some
configuration, the peaks 704C1 and 704C2 may provide various
benefits. For example, the complementary convex/concave surface
profile may provide an increased surface area for bonding over the
surface profile illustrated in FIG. 7A. In some configurations, the
complementary convex/concave surface profile may provide for
alignment during construction of the cores 702C1 and 702C2.
[0060] FIGS. 8A-8C are side, cross-sectional views illustrating
surface profiles of cores having complementary features that
facilitate the stacking of folded cores on each other. In some
implementations, if a particular thickness of a folded core is
needed, it may be preferable to build the folded core using
successive layers of folded cores placed on each other. The
successive stacking of the folded cores may be required if the
core's thickness makes manufacturing relatively difficult. When
building a particularly thick core, the areas in the folds may be
prone to defects that are undetectable if the folded core is a
single, unitary piece. In a different manner, the same thickness
may be achievable if several, thinner folded cores are stacked on
each other, with the resulting thickness being the desired
thickness.
[0061] The stacking of multiple folded cores to create a final
folded core structure may have additional benefits. For example, it
may be desirable for the final folded core structure to perform
various functions at different levels. There may be several
"strengthening" folded cores that are designed to provide a
structural function. There may also be one or more cores that
provide electrical functions, such as the conduction of
electricity. In lieu of building a folded core from a single,
unitary construction method, special-purposed folded core layers
may be stacked on each other to provide the functionality desired.
In some configurations, the folded cores in a folded core stack may
use complementary features to provide both alignment capabilities
as well as provide the structural benefits desired in a folded
core.
[0062] FIG. 8A is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating one
configuration for complementary features for a stacked, folded
core. A stacked core 802A includes a core 802A1 and a core 802A2.
The cores 802A1 and 802A2 may be folded cores constructed in
accordance with various configurations described herein. Further,
the cores 802A1 and 802A2 may be formed from different materials or
may have other differences. For example, the core 802A1 may be a
reinforcing core formed from relatively strong materials that are
designed to provide structural support to the stacked core 802A. In
another example, the core 802A2 may be an electrical core designed
to conduct electricity, such as from lightning strikes. In a
further example, the core 802A1 or the core 802A2 may be an
environmental core designed to be resistance to various
environmental conditions that may damage other cores in the stacked
core 802A. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the cores 802A1 and 802A2
have peaks 804A that are rounded to form a generally convex surface
profile.
[0063] FIG. 8A, as well as FIGS. 8B-8C below, also illustrates a
dense stacking configuration. In a manner different from the
configurations illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C, the folded cores forming
the stacks illustrated in FIG. 8A, as well as FIGS. 8B-8C below,
abut each other along a significant portion of their length. The
abutting of the cores can provide for a structure that may reduce
voids or air pockets formed from a stacking operation, which may
occur in the sparse stacking illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7C. As
illustrated, dense stacking may be provided by abutting an inner
surface 822 of the core 802A2 with an outer surface 824 of the core
802A1. In various configurations, at least a portion of the peaks
of one folded core may lie in at least a portion of the valleys of
a complementary, abutting folded core. In some configurations, the
abutment may include a bonding agent or adhesive between the core
802A1 and the core 802A2 to bond the core 802A1 to the core
802A2.
[0064] FIG. 8B is a side, cross-sectional view illustrating an
alternate peak profile for a stacked core 802B. The stacked core
802B is formed from cores 802B1 and 802B2, which may be folded
cores having various design configurations. The peaks 804B of the
cores 802B1 and 802B2 are generally triangular in nature. In a
similar manner, FIG. 8C is a side, cross-sectional view
illustrating a further alternate peak profile for a stacked core
802C. The stacked core 802C is formed from cores 802C1 and 802C2,
which may be folded cores having various design configurations. The
peaks 804C of the cores 802C1 and 802C2 have a generally planar
surface profile.
[0065] Turning now to FIG. 9, an illustrative routine 900 for
making an aircraft panel is provided herein. Unless otherwise
indicated, it should be appreciated that more or fewer operations
may be performed than shown in the figures and described herein.
Additionally, unless otherwise indicated, these operations may also
be performed in a different order than those described herein.
[0066] The routine 900 starts at operation 902, where the top face
sheet 104 and the bottom face sheet 106 are provided. The top face
sheet 104 and the bottom face sheet 106 may be constructed from
various materials, the present disclosure of which is not limited
to any particular type.
[0067] The routine 900 proceeds to operation 904, where the folded
core 202 with the peaks 204 is provided. The peaks 204 may have an
angular, flat or rounded profile. The present disclosure, however,
it not limited to any profile. The folded core 202 may also include
the valleys 206. In some configurations, the folded core 202 is a
single piece of material that is folded in a corrugated zigzag
pattern. In some configurations, no cuts are made to the material
forming the folded core 202 during the folding process of the
folded core 202. In further configurations, the generally flat
surface profile of the peaks 204 and the valleys 206 can provide an
improved bond between the folded core 202 and the face sheets 104
and 106.
[0068] The routine 900 proceeds to operations 906 and 908, where an
adhesive is applied between a top surface of the folded core 202
and a bottom surface of the top face sheet 104, and, an adhesive is
applied between a bottom surface of the folded core 202 and a top
surface of the bottom face sheet 106. The adhesive may be applied
in various ways, of which the concepts described herein are not
limited to any particular way. For example, the adhesive can be
applied initially only to the surfaces of the folded core 202, the
surfaces of the top sheet 104 and the bottom sheet 106, or
both.
[0069] The routine 900 proceeds to operation 910, where the
adhesive is cured to form an integral panel for use in an aircraft.
As used herein, "integral" includes a single unit. It should be
understood that the concepts and technologies described herein are
not limited to any particular adhesive or curing method, as any
appropriate adhesive and method may be used. Thereafter, the
routine 900 ends.
[0070] The subject matter described above is provided by way of
illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various
modifications and changes may be made to the subject matter
described herein without following the example embodiments and
applications illustrated and described, and without departing from
the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure, which is set
forth in the following claims.
* * * * *